WOODWORKING
Clamping Wood for Glue Joints
The method for gluing a wood project is simple, but proper steps must be taken to assure success. By
following the steps below, you will be well on your way to creating a fine glued joint.
Gluing methods:
Always dry clamp before gluing: A dry clamp is when you clamp everything together without the
glue. This allows you to think through the process, eliminate suprises, work quickly once glue is
applied, and determine the required clamps.
Rotate growth rings on plank glue projects. Because wood
is constantly moving, especially in damp climates, when
gluing planks together use the direction of the growth
rings to your favor. By alternating them, each plank will
pull in opposite directions and keep your glue-up from
warping (see illustration to the right).
Apply glue to both sides of wood joint. A joint glued on
one piece of lumber alone is only half as strong as when applied to both pieces.
Do not starve your joint. Starving is the term used when an inadequate amount of glue has been
applied to the joint. A starved joint is weak and will easily break apart.
Know when to apply a lot of glue. If you will be running your project through a planer after it has
been glued, be generous with the amount of glue you apply. The excess will be removed later by the
machine.
After you have applied a bead of glue to the wood edges, wipe it flat using a finger, brush, or stick,
but don’t remove it. This will help assure proper coverage of the glue over the entire joint.
Clear excess glue immediately after clamping before it hardens, otherwise it will seal your wood and
leave an ugly stain mark. Scrape the glue off with a scraper or wet cloth. Do not use your hand to
wipe glue, that will only disperese the glue and press it into your wood. Scrape using a lifting
motion.
Joinery
